Ford Endeavour 2014-2015 2.5L 4X2 MT

Endeavour 2014-2015 2.5L 4X2 MT Review

Ford India has officially launched the 2014 version of its luxury SUV Ford Endeavour in the country's automobile bazaar. The variant names are similar to those of the outgoing model among which, the Ford Endeavour 2.5 L 4x2 MT is the entry level variant. This trim is powered by the same 2.5-litre TDCI diesel motor that displaces 2499cc and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox. The car maker claims that the vehicle can produce a peak mileage of 13.1 Kmpl, which is satisfying considering its power and caliber. This trim gets major cosmetic updates in terms of both exteriors and interiors. As far as the appearance is concerned, it gets a revamped headlight cluster, modified radiator grille, re-treated fog lights and a new bumper. In addition to these, it is also blessed with a set of newly styled alloy wheels and blind spot mirror on ORVM. Coming to the interiors, the central console gets a brand new avatar with better build quality. In addition to these, the company has updated the seating arrangement with a luxurious finish, which improves the comfort level. At present, this trim is available with a 2-year or 100,000 kilometers warranty (whichever is earlier) and it can be extended further at an additional cost.

Exteriors:

As said above, this 2014 version of this SUV gets major cosmetic updates, especially in terms of exteriors. To start with the front, the manufacturer has updated the headlight cluster with wraparound design and incorporated it with powerful halogen lights and turn indicator. In the center, the radiator grille gets a pronounced design with sleeker slats and is treated with chrome. Just below this, the body colored bumper gets a re-treatment with slightly improved air intake console and a pair of reshaped fog lamps. Coming to the sides, the car maker has fitted its muscular wheel arches with a set of newly designed 16-inch alloy wheels that adds to the rugged appeal of this SUV. Here, the body colored ORVMs have been incorporated with blind spot mirror and turn indicators. In addition to these, it gets aspects like silver roof rails and body decals that further enhances the elegance of its sides. The rear end has a body colored bumper, which gets a minor tweak, while the remaining aspects have been retained from the outgoing trim. As a result of cosmetic updates, this SUV comes with an overall length of 5062mm along with a total width of 1788mm and with a decent height of 1826mm, which are slightly different from the earlier model. Currently the automobile company is selling this trim in four body paint options including Moondust Sliver, Panther Black, Diamond White, and Sea Grey.

Interiors:

The interiors of this Ford Endeavour 2.5L 4x2 MT trim have also been refurbished and are now looking refined. This variant gets a versatile seating arrangement, which can host at least seven passengers comfortably. The seats have been covered with high quality leather upholstery along with the gearshift knob and the steering wheel as well, which adds to the classiness of the cabin. The design of the dashboard has been retained, while the central console gets a minor tweak with better fit and finish. Here, the gearbox is also slightly updated and compliments the new look of cabin. The second row is fitted with 50:50 split folding seats, while the third row is equipped with fully foldable and removable seats , which will be helpful in increasing the storage space as and when required. In a bid to enhance the convenience, the manufacturer has incorporated several utility based aspects like cigarette lighter, sporty pedals, sun glass holders and numerous other such aspects.

Engine and Performance:

This entry level variant is powered by a sophisticated 2.5-litre, TDCI diesel motor that is incorporated with common rail direct injection system. This engine has 4-cylinders, 16-valves that displaces 2499cc and is further equipped with a variable geometry turbocharger as well. This enables it to produce a peak power of 141bhp at 3500rpm, while producing a mammoth torque of 330Nm at just 1800rpm. The front wheels are enabled to draw the torque output through an advanced 5-speed manual transmission gearbox and it helps in delivering a peak mileage of approximately 13.1 Kmpl.

Braking and Handling:

This trim is incorporated with a highly responsive ball and nut type steering wheel with variable power assistance system. Its front wheels have been fitted with ventilated disc brakes and the rear wheels have been equipped with self adjusting drum brakes. It is also incorporated with anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution system , which will improve the braking mechanism. On the other hand, its front axle is equipped with independent double wishbone type of suspension system accompanied by stabilizer bar and torsion bar spring. At the same time, its rear axle comes equipped with progressive linear rate leaf springs that is further loaded with low friction pads. This suspension mechanism is further enhanced by tubular double acting type gas filled shock absorbers.

Comfort Features:

The Ford Endeavour 2.5L 4x2 MT is the entry level variant, but still it is equipped with numerous innovative comfort features. It comes with a list of features including leather seats, power steering with tilt adjustment, a large glove box with illumination, column stalked audio controls, three 12v accessory power sockets, cigarette lighter, height adjustable front seat belts and a front center armrest with storage bin. It also has an air conditioning system with second and third row AC vents along with independent controls that keeps the entire cabin cool. Furthermore, it has an MP3 player with AUX-In and USB socket along with six speakers.

Safety Features:

This facelifted version is blessed with significant protective aspects that provides better safety to the occupants and vehicle. The list includes a remote key less entry with anti-theft alarm, front fog lamps, dual stage front airbags , anti lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution and seatbelt pretensioner with load limiter.

Pros:

1. Refurbished exteriors and interiors with improved quality.

2. Engine performance is quite reliable. 

Cons:

1. Fuel economy has to be made better. 

2. Ownership cost is slighter higher.